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Detroit is setting the stage for a major wave of community involvement as Rise Higher Detroit launches a citywide series of neighborhood conversations beginning February 2, 2026. The effort continues through early March 2026, creating several weeks of opportunities for residents to participate directly in shaping the Mayor’s action plan.
The initiative marks the next step following the Rise Higher Detroit Community Survey and represents what city officials describe as the most expansive public engagement push in Detroit’s history. The events are designed to bring residents face-to-face with city leadership, ensuring communities across the city have a voice in the administration’s priorities.
Focus on priority areas identified by residents
Each event in the series will explore one or more of the priority areas highlighted in the Rise Higher Detroit Community Survey. Guided discussions will include policy committee co-chairs, subject-matter experts and community leaders who will help residents talk through experiences and goals for their neighborhoods.
Although each gathering centers on specific topics, attendees can share feedback on any issue that matters to them. The format encourages open dialogue and ensures communities can raise concerns even outside the scheduled themes.
Residents will guide the mayor’s first-term action plan
To create an inclusive experience, each session will feature facilitated table conversations where residents can share input directly with city teams. Brief updates on ongoing administrative progress will be included, offering transparency as the action plan takes shape.
Participants will have the option to complete the Rise Higher Detroit Community Survey on-site. The insights collected between February and March 2026 will be integrated with the existing survey data to develop the Mayor’s action plan for the first term. That plan will rely heavily on what Detroiters share throughout these events.
First events of the citywide series
The first Rise Higher Detroit Community Conversation is scheduled for Monday, February 2, 2026, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Focus: HOPE. This opening session centers on economic and workforce development (1), giving residents the chance to weigh in on employment opportunities, workforce challenges and broader economic priorities.
As the month progresses, additional sessions will unfold across Detroit. These upcoming events, spanning February 2026 through early March 2026, will touch on priority areas such as infrastructure and mobility (2), housing and neighborhood stability (3), public safety (4), youth services (5), health and community well-being (6), arts and culture (7), small business development (8), sustainability (9) and city services (10).
Residents can attend any event regardless of neighborhood, ensuring the process remains accessible and inclusive. By offering multiple dates and community-focused sessions, the administration aims to reach as many Detroiters as possible while strengthening trust and collaboration.
This series marks a pivotal moment for the city as leaders and residents work together to map out Detroit’s next chapter. With conversations unfolding throughout February and March 2026,the Rise Higher Detroit initiative underscores the importance of shared decision-making and active community participation.
Source: Rise Higher Detroit press release
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